To participate, each pupil read all four shortlisted titles before joining students from schools across the county to discuss the books and vote for their favourite. In a format reminiscent of the Eurovision Song Contest, the awards took place simultaneously at five venues across Hampshire, with votes from each location collated before the overall winner was revealed.

Our pupils attended the event at Bishop Challoner Catholic Secondary School in Basingstoke on Tuesday 30 June, where they enjoyed lively round-table discussions with fellow readers from other schools. There was a wide range of opinions about the strengths of each shortlisted book, and no clear favourite emerged among the group, making for some thoughtful and engaging debate.

After all the votes had been cast and combined with those from the other venues, the winning title was announced as My Name is Samin by Fidan Meikle.

The Hampshire Book Awards provided a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to share their love of reading, exchange ideas with their peers, and celebrate contemporary children's literature.

A huge thank you to the Hampshire Schools Library Service for organising such an enjoyable and engaging event that continues to inspire young readers.